Swelling

Mineral construction materials, Example: Concrete Swelling is the term for volume expansion due to moisture/water absorption. The ratio between initial and final dimension is the amount of swelling. In concrete construction, swelling is a less important factor as the example of structural concrete elements completely or partly under water shows. However, a swelling process can also be desirable, as in the case of swelling mortar. Here, additions produce a controlled swelling to support the formation of a positive connection between mortar and masonry so that when cured the mortar completely fills the joint.